Category: Restaurants

Franklins BBQ has been the long-standing king of barbecue in Austin, TX, and Texas takes barbecue seriously. So, are you visiting and want to try the world-famous Franklins? Be warned, it’s not quite as easy as it sounds. Franklins BBQ is just as famous for its 3-hour line as it is for the delicious BBQ.

3 Hour Lines…?

That’s right, guests start lining up for Franklins with breakfast still in hand. Rain or shine, Franklins is open from 9am-Sold Out, and they sell out each day around 2:00pm. Guests start to arrive as early as 8am bringing coolers, chairs and umbrellas. Around 11am, an employee takes orders from guests in line to determine where the cut off or “sold out” mark will be.

The Franklins line has even created it’s own economy. Hawkers are found renting chairs to people as they wait, and in the event of a rainy day one can rent ponchos or umbrellas. Although currently outlawed, many people made a living by waiting in line for others. At $20/order, they’d place your order and delver the world-famous BBQ to you.

For many, braving the line is well worth the wait. It is like a pre-game for a sporting event as anticipation and hunger builds. Like tailgating, people bring card games or footballs, beer and food. Students study for tests or play games on their cell phone. My friends brought Java beer, each with the same caffeine as a cup of coffee, to celebrate a Sunday Funday at Franklin’s BBQ.

Come Prepared

Needless to say, a trip to Franklins is a full commitment for your day. Whether you’re a local or tourist in town for just the weekend, make sure you prepare prior to hopping in line. Bring waters, snacks, chairs and something to do. By the time you make it through the doors and get a whiff of what awaits, you’ll know it was well worth the wait.

Hopdoddys

Hopdoddys, located on South Congress or north on Anderson, has been a long-time favorite for craft burgers in Austin. Home baked buns, fresh Texas beef and a slew of unconventional options, Hopdoddy’s menu always has us coming back for more. Try the Goodnight burger with a side of truffle parmesan fries. The veggie burger and salmon burger options provide a healthier alternative while staying hearty.

Hot Mess

Hot Mess is a food truck located on E 6th street in front of Zilker Brewery. Just as its name suggest, the food comes out hot and delicious, falling off the bun. Boasting classic Texas grub, Hot Mess’ menu ranges from barbecue and burgers to tacos and fries. Don’t miss the HTM Burger – fresh made with local beef. Add jalapeños and a fried egg and a side of hand cut French fries to top off this delicious pick. If you’re looking for catering for a big event or special occasion? Be sure to reach out to Hot Mess for food truck catering. Website.

Svante’s Food Truck

What can I say about the Space Jam burger at Svante’s food trailer? It’s AMAZING. Topped with candied bacon, arugula, garlic aioli and sautéed onions and stuffed with jalapeno Havarti, the Space Jam is a perfect blend of salty and sweet. Made with grass fed beef and served with an order of delicious hand cut fries, do yourself a favor and try it today. Website.

Black Sheep

Black Sheep located on South Lamar is a favorite neighborhood dive for many Austinites. Local brews or cheap “white trash beer” are a great accompaniment for their high stacked burgers or wings. Add a side of sweet potato fries, and you have a meal fit for a king. My personal favorite is the veggie burger with spicy aioli. Website.

The Nightcap

Nightcap, located in Clarksville, has a great Sunday evening special pairing wines and burgers stacked high. Skip brunch and save your appetite for this incredible dinner. Build your own burger with staples ranging from eggs to peppers, or make it fancy with black garlic, fois gras, or truffle aioli. Want to do a wine flight with your custom burger? Come the first Sunday of the month for a wine special. Website.

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About the Author

After a year-long trip around the world, Alberto Marshall is back in Austin, TX with a new mission — keep exploring. To maintain this goal, he started blogging about his city Austin, TX to force him to get out and explore new food and places.